The State of California is set to introduce an exciting new summer scheme under the CalFresh program. This initiative is designed to combat food hunger during the school break for Americans living on a low income. But how exactly does it work, and what steps are needed to activate it?
Formerly known as the Food Stamp Program and federally recognized as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP, CalFresh is California’s dedicated effort to address hunger and improve nutrition. This program plays a crucial role in providing monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families, enabling them to purchase groceries and ensuring food security while promoting healthy eating habits.
How the SUN Bucks Program is Transforming Summer Nutrition for Low-Income Families
Managed by the California Department of Social Services, CalFresh benefits are distributed electronically via an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card. This card can be used at authorized retailers, including:
- Grocery stores
- Farmers’ markets
- Some online retailers
This system is remarkably similar to how the SUN Bucks card will function, offering a seamless and convenient way for beneficiaries to access nutritious food.
To take advantage of the new summer scheme, eligible families will need to follow a straightforward activation process. While specific details on activation will be provided closer to the program’s launch, participants can expect a user-friendly procedure aimed at ensuring everyone can easily access their benefits during the summer months.
By expanding the reach of CalFresh through this summer initiative, California continues to make strides in its mission to alleviate food hunger and support healthy living for its low-income residents.
To activate the card, it simply needs to be used within 122 days of the funds being added. This is similar to how CalFresh EBT cards require usage to keep the funding active.
What is the SUN Bucks Program?
The SUN Bucks program, also known as Summer EBT (S-EBT), is designed to support families by providing $120 per eligible child. This initiative ensures that school-aged children remain well-fed and nourished during the summer break.
Eligibility for the SUN Bucks Program
Children aged between six and 18 who are enrolled in the CalFresh or Medi-Cal programs are automatically eligible for the SUN Bucks benefit. Cards will be automatically mailed to the recorded addresses associated with these programs.
Additionally, children and young people up to the age of 22 who participate in a national school lunch program or breakfast program and are approved for free or reduced meal prices will also be automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks scheme.
- CalFresh and Medi-Cal participants aged 6-18
- Participants up to age 22 in national school lunch or breakfast programs with free or reduced meal approval
This initiative ensures that no child goes hungry during the summer, providing much-needed support to families during the school break.